More Cruise Ship News and Event Planning

The Schreiber Council meeting began with the approval of the evening's agenda. The first item was a presentation from Superior Country, highlighting the increase in cruise ship tourism on the Great Lakes and its impact on the area. Although Schreiber itself currently sees no direct benefit, nearby areas like Terrace Bay and Rossport are seeing an upswing. Terrace Bay has recently upgraded its beachfront with a deep harbour, and Rossport has long been able to host large vessels due to its historical fishing industry and large government dock. A significant percentage of visitors are from overseas, but only some opt to go ashore. Trends in tourism will ultimately determine the long-term impact of cruise ships on the Great Lakes.

The council then moved on to approving the minutes of the previous meeting and addressing unfinished business. A quotation for duct cleaning at the medical centre was approved, as was a donation to the Terrace Bay lighthouse festival. The recreation programmer resubmitted a finalized budget for the Heritage Days event after correcting previous errors. Mayor Mullins raised concerns about parking logistics for two of the events, noting limited parking at Schreiber beach and the need for transportation for seniors. The council approved the plan and budget.

During the Committee of the Whole portion, various department reports were presented. The CAO's report emphasized the importance of offering municipal space to groups like the drive test organization. The ordering of dog tags was discussed, with some controversy as many pet owners opt out of tags and enforcement for cats has been lax. The need to clarify and report the retirement of tangible municipal assets was also addressed, as a report is required to finalize the year-end financial statements.

The Director of Operations provided a status update, detailing the events leading to and following a boil water advisory issued last month. There was discussion about potentially applying for a permit to temporarily reduce requirements at the wastewater treatment plant during maintenance and upgrades. With new residential waste collection bylaws coming into effect in July across the province, a reminder will be posted on Schreiber's social media sites. A debriefing report followed a recent evacuation order on Ontario Street due to a potential explosive device found in a garage. An update on recycling for municipal buildings was presented, and the expense report for the vac truck at the waste treatment plant was approved.

The recreation report expressed concerns about finding a suitable sponsor for the liquor license at the Heritage Days event. A special permit will be needed, and the township will have to hold the license. The mini train will be available for kids on a tour on the second day of Heritage Days. The Health and Safety Committee submitted the minutes of their last meeting.

Under communications, the municipal league meeting was discussed. In unfinished business, the council finalized social media policies and discussed the summer schedule for meetings. Mayor Mullins favoured maintaining the current schedule, despite other planned meetings that might interrupt any breaks during the summer. Concerns about credit card payments at the front desk were raised, noting the extra costs and the growing trend of residents using credit cards to accumulate reward points or stretch out payments over time. The meeting was then adjourned.